Lt-Gen Shadrack Sibiya, a high-ranking South African police officer, is set to face a disciplinary hearing on Monday over allegations of improper relationships with underworld figures. The allegations surfaced during the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, where Sibiya is accused of receiving gifts from Vusimusi "Cat" Matlala, including 20 impalas and money. The nature of these gifts is yet to be determined. Sibiya has denied all allegations, calling them unfounded.
Sibiya's disciplinary hearing was mentioned during his bail application at the Randburg magistrate's court on Tuesday. He is facing charges of five counts of sexual grooming, rape, and human trafficking. In his bail application, Sibiya offered to pay R20,000 and assured the court that he would not evade trial or interfere with investigations. His lawyer argued that his continued incarceration would negatively impact his family and his ability to prepare for the disciplinary hearing.
Sibiya emphasized the importance of attending the disciplinary hearing in person, citing his right to an audi alterem partem hearing. He warned that his absence could result in an unfavorable finding against him. The court postponed his bail application to Thursday to allow the state to consider the information submitted by Sibiya's legal team.
SAPS spokesperson Brig Athlenda Mathe confirmed that Sibiya will face an expedited disciplinary hearing on Monday. Mathe stated that Sibiya was served with the disciplinary hearing notice on Tuesday morning while in custody. The hearing will take place at Kgosi Mampuru, and arrangements will be made with correctional services if Sibiya remains in custody.
Sibiya has been suspended since September last year. The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry heard allegations of impropriety against him, including his association with Matlala, an alleged underworld figure. The commission's findings have led to Sibiya's current predicament, with both the disciplinary hearing and the rape charges pending.
The police spokesperson, Brig Mathe, expressed that the SAPS will be guided by the court's decision regarding Sibiya's bail application. If Sibiya is still in custody, the disciplinary hearing will be conducted at Kgosi Mampuru with arrangements made through correctional services. This will ensure that the hearing proceeds as scheduled.
Sibiya's case has garnered significant attention due to his high-ranking position within the SAPS and the serious nature of the allegations against him. The outcome of both the disciplinary hearing and the rape trial will likely have significant implications for his career and personal life. As the case unfolds, it will be closely watched by the public and the media.
Key points
- Lt-Gen Shadrack Sibiya to face disciplinary hearing over Madlanga commission claims
- Sibiya also faces charges of five counts of sexual grooming, rape, and human trafficking
- The disciplinary hearing is set to take place on Monday, with arrangements made if Sibiya remains in custody
